This Eid vacation I took a short holiday to Qatar from Dubai. My 3 day holiday was packed with loads of activities and fun.
I traveled by direct Fly Dubai flight from Dubai to Doha the capital of Qatar. It took us approximately 50 minutes. There are many direct flights daily to Doha from Dubai and vice versa.
Qatar is one of the most welcoming countries for visitors and up to nationalities from102 countries c an enter visa-free, and all others can apply for an e-visa using the Hayya platform online. As a resident of GCC country, I got visa on arrival through Discover Qatar.
About Qatar
Qatar, officially the state of Qatar, is a country in West Asia. It occupies the Qatar Peninsula on the northeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula in the Middle East and shares its sole land border with Saudi Arabia to the south, with the rest of its territory surrounded by the Persian Gulf. An inlet of the Persian Gulf separates Qatar from nearby Bahrain.
The capital and largest city is Doha, home to over 80% of the country’s inhabitants. The land area is mostly made up of flat, low-lying desert.
On my 3 day visit to Qatar, I stayed in Lusail and explored the country.
What is the best time to visit Qatar?
The best time to visit is from November-March when the weather is pleasant and good for sightseeing. The weather can be harsh during the other months of the year, especially during summer.
Where to stay?
Whether it is ultra luxury, luxury, mid-range or budget hotels, Doha offers great options. We stayed in the ultra luxurious Fairmont Doha in Lusail.
Getting Around
Doha has public transport like metro, buses and trains. You can also rent a car or hire a car or use an Uber. I had hired a car with the driver/guide throughout my 3 day trip.
Things to do and see in Qatar
I stayed in Doha for 2 nights and 3 days and explored most of the city and the outskirts. The country is small and 3 days is sufficient.
The first day I arrived from Dubai in the morning and checked into the hotel and relaxed for couple of hours and then explored the city.
Doha is home to futuristic skyscrapers and many ultramodern architecture inspired by Islamic design. My first stop was the Museum of Islamic Art situated in the Corniche waterfront promenade. I took a buggy ride in the MIA park after visiting the museum and spent sometime in the corniche.
Next I visited the architecturally unique National Museum of Qatar. It has historical and natural history exhibits, including many artifacts.
Back to the hotel and went on a walk to Lusail Marina and also visited Lusail Boulevard.
Day 2 was a hectic and full of activities. After a leisurely breakfast we drove down to Souq Waqif, a traditional marketplace with shops selling garments, spices, handicrafts and souvenirs. A lovely place for a meal and souvenir shopping.
The other places I covered on that day were:
• Katara Cultural Village
• Mina District/ Doha Cruise Terminal
• Doha Corniche
• West Bay
• West Bay Beach
• Dukhan Beach
• The Pearl Monument
• The Pearl Island
• Desert Safari
• Inland sea Visit
• Villaggio Mall
• Souq Al Wakra
• Qetaifan island & Glass Bridge
The last day or day 3, I visited Barzan Fort/Towers which is located 20 kilometers north of Doha in the village of Umm Salal Mohammed. Built in 19th century, it was a watchtower to guard the estate from Ottoman army.
Back to the city and finally visited the famous and the biggest mall in Qatar- Place Vendôme in Lusail, Doha. Explored the mall, did some shopping and it was already evening and time to head back home to Dubai.
Overall it was a great trip to Qatar. Loved the diverse dining options, exquisite resorts and hotels, the corniche, the Pearl island, colorful Mina district, buzzing Souq Waqif, massive football stadiums and the malls.
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